USL League Two Final Preview: Vermont Green FC and Ballard FC Clash for the Crown
TAMPA, Fla. (NSN) — The 2025 USL League Two Final presented by VensureHR is set, with Vermont Green FC set to host 2023 champions Ballard FC in a clash of two of the league’s most complete and compelling clubs. Kickoff is scheduled for Sunday night as both teams prepare for a high-stakes showdown that will crown this year’s national champion.
This season marks the 30th anniversary of USL League Two, a campaign defined by growth and competitive parity. With more than 30 new clubs joining the league and several playoff berths and division titles decided on the final weekend, the league’s upward trajectory was evident throughout.
Among the crowded field, Vermont and Ballard consistently stood out. Now, after navigating grueling regular seasons and intense playoff battles, they meet in a final loaded with storylines, talent, and tactical intrigue.
Vermont Green FC: Resilience Born in the Northeast
Founded in 2022, Vermont Green FC has made rapid progress but entered 2025 seeking its first deep playoff run. The club overcame one of the league’s most competitive divisions, outlasting former champions Western Mass Pioneers and Seacoast United Phantoms to claim its first Northeast Division title.
“It was about taking care of the division,” said head coach Chris Taylor. “Anyone who wins the Northeast has a shot to win the national championship.”
Vermont’s path to the top included one of the most dramatic moments in recent memory. Trailing 2-0 in second-half stoppage time against Western Mass in the regular-season finale, Vermont scored twice — including a 99th-minute winner from Owen O’Malley — in what’s now known as the “Miracle at Lusitano.”
“That moment changed everything,” Taylor said.
Captain Zachary Zengue has helped lead the Green through multiple comeback wins in the postseason, including a penalty shootout victory over Dothan United in the national semifinal. Goalkeeper Niklas Herceg came up with a critical save before O’Malley converted the clincher, sending Virtue Field into celebration.
“We’ve created something special here,” said Zengue. “Now we want to finish the job.”
Ballard FC: The Standard Bearer in the West
Also founded in 2022, Ballard FC arrives in the final with the weight of expectation. The Seattle-based club won the 2023 national title but suffered a stunning early playoff exit in 2024. That loss sharpened their focus for 2025, with one goal in mind: winning it all.
“This season, it was championship or bust,” said head coach James Riley. “We told the group all year — adversity is going to hit. What matters is how we respond.”
Ballard began the season unbeaten in its first five matches before a midseason dip saw them held scoreless in two consecutive draws. A commanding 11-0 win reignited their campaign, and they went on to secure a third straight Northwest Division title.
Postseason play brought familiar foes. Ballard ousted local rival Snohomish United and Western Conference contender Ventura County Fusion before edging perennial power Flint City Bucks in the semifinal — overcoming their first deficit of the playoffs in the process.
“We felt like if we didn’t make the national final, it was a failure,” said captain Christian Engmann. “We’re proud, but we’re not satisfied.”
Sunday’s Final: Possession, Pressure, and Precision
Both teams play a proactive style built around possession and disciplined buildup. Riley praised Vermont for its resilience and technical quality.
“We know they’ve come from behind and they’re undefeated,” Riley said. “They have a fantastic pedigree. We’ll develop a plan, manage the emotions, and turn it over to the guys to express themselves.”
Taylor returned the respect.
“Ballard’s movement and commitment to possession are impressive,” he said. “We’ll need to be disciplined defensively and execute in key moments.”
For both sides, the final represents a culmination of months of preparation, growth, and togetherness.
“Everything that happens on Sunday will be a summary of the work we’ve put in all summer,” said Engmann. “This game is about us.”
Kickoff for the 2025 USL League Two Final is scheduled for Sunday evening. Fans can follow coverage on the National Soccer Network across platforms.
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